Hyperlipidemia is caused by high levels of lipids in the blood. It has several causes such as genetics, diet, obesity, diabetes, and medications. Untreated hyperlipidemia increases the risk of atherosclerosis, heart attack, and stroke. It is classified by which lipoproteins are elevated. Treatment involves lifestyle changes like diet and exercise as well as medications to lower cholesterol and triglycerides such as statins, fibrates, bile acid sequestrants, nicotinic acid, ezetimibe, and probucol. Each drug works by a different mechanism but aims to reduce cardiovascular risk.